Introduction
Cooking is an art that brings people together, and pasta dishes hold a special place in culinary traditions around the world. This creamy garlic parmesan spaghetti recipe is not only simple but also mouth-watering, ideal for a weeknight dinner or a special occasion. With a perfect blend of flavors, it combines the richness of butter, cream, and cheese with the brightness of garlic and herbs. Let’s dive into the ingredients that make this dish a delightful experience.
Detailed Ingredients with measures
300g/10 oz spaghetti
2 tbsp / 30g unsalted butter
3 garlic cloves, minced
½ onion, finely chopped
1 cup / 250 ml tomato passata / tomato puree
3/4 cup / 185 ml heavy / thickened cream
1/2 cup / 125 ml low-fat milk
3/4 cup / 30g finely freshly grated parmesan
1 tsp dried basil, or other herb of choice
1 tsp chicken or vegetable stock powder, or 1 bouillon cube, crumbled
Finely ground pepper + salt
Prep Time
10 minutes
Cook Time, Total Time, Yield
Cook Time: 15 minutes
Total Time: 25 minutes
Yield: Serves 4
This recipe brings together a delightful harmony of flavors, making it a go-to dish for pasta lovers. The creamy sauce envelops the spaghetti, while the garlic and parmesan add a beautiful depth. Serve it hot, garnished with extra parmesan and perhaps some fresh parsley to elevate its presentation! Enjoy your meal!
Detailed Directions and Instructions
Step 1: Cook the Spaghetti
In a large pot, bring water to a boil. Once boiling, add the spaghetti and cook for the time indicated on the packet minus 2 minutes. Just before you drain the pasta, scoop out a mugful of the pasta cooking water and set it aside.
Step 2: Sauté Garlic and Onion
In a large skillet, melt 2 tablespoons of unsalted butter over medium heat. Once the butter is melted, add the minced garlic and finely chopped onion. Cook for about 2 minutes, or until the onion becomes translucent.
Step 3: Add Remaining Ingredients
Pour in the cup of tomato passata (or puree), along with the 3/4 cup of heavy cream and 1/2 cup of low-fat milk. Add the finely grated parmesan cheese, dried basil, and either the chicken or vegetable stock powder (or crumbled bouillon cube). Stir the mixture until the parmesan cheese has melted completely.
Step 4: Simmer the Sauce
Increase the heat slightly and allow the sauce to simmer for approximately 2 minutes. Adjust the seasoning by adding salt and freshly ground pepper to taste.
Step 5: Combine Pasta and Sauce
Add the drained spaghetti to the skillet with the sauce. Toss the pasta for 1 to 2 minutes, allowing the sauce to thicken and cling to the pasta. If the sauce becomes too thick, gradually add some of the reserved pasta cooking water to achieve the desired consistency.
Step 6: Serve
Serve the pasta immediately, garnished with additional parmesan cheese and parsley if desired.
Notes
Note 1
Tomato passata can be substituted with tomato puree, ensuring a smooth sauce.
Note 2
For the heavy/thickened cream, consider using alternatives like half-and-half or a vegan cream substitute if needed.
Note 3
Freshly grated parmesan works best for flavor and texture; avoid pre-grated cheese for optimal taste.
Note 4
Chicken or vegetable stock powder enhances the flavor; a bouillon cube can serve as a substitute, crushed into smaller pieces before adding.
Cook techniques
Cooking Pasta
Cook spaghetti in a large pot of boiling salted water. Follow the package instructions but reduce the cooking time by 2 minutes to achieve an al dente texture.
Sautéing Aromatics
Melt butter over medium heat in a large skillet. Add minced garlic and finely chopped onion, cooking until both are translucent, about 2 minutes.
Developing Sauce
In the same skillet, combine tomato passata, heavy cream, milk, parmesan, dried basil, and stock powder. Stir until the parmesan melts and the ingredients blend.
Combining Pasta and Sauce
Add the cooked spaghetti to the skillet. Toss for 1 to 2 minutes to coat the pasta with the sauce, ensuring it thickens to cling rather than pool at the bottom. Use reserved pasta water if necessary.
Serving
Serve the dish immediately, garnished with additional parmesan and parsley if desired.
FAQ
Can I use any type of pasta?
Yes, you can use any type of pasta, though cooking times may vary based on the shape and thickness.
What can I substitute for heavy cream?
Alternatives to heavy cream include half-and-half, coconut cream, or a blend of milk and cornstarch for a thicker consistency.
How can I adjust the flavor of the sauce?
You can enhance the flavor by adding more herbs, garlic, or spices such as red pepper flakes for a bit of heat.
What if my sauce is too thick?
Add a little reserved pasta cooking water, one tablespoon at a time, until you reach your desired consistency.
Can I prepare this dish ahead of time?
While it’s best served fresh, you can prepare the sauce in advance and store it in the refrigerator. Just reheat and combine with freshly cooked pasta when ready to serve.
Conclusion
This creamy spaghetti dish combines rich flavors from butter, garlic, and parmesan, creating a delightful meal that’s perfect for any occasion. The addition of tomato passata and heavy cream enriches the sauce, while the herbs and seasoning add depth. Enjoy the satisfaction of fresh, homemade pasta coated in a luscious sauce that brings comfort and satisfaction to the table.
More recipes suggestions and combination
Add cooked vegetables like spinach or mushrooms for a nutritious boost.
More recipes suggestions and combination
Incorporate cooked chicken or shrimp for a protein-packed variation.
More recipes suggestions and combination
Mix in sun-dried tomatoes or olives for a Mediterranean twist.
More recipes suggestions and combination
Replace parmesan cheese with feta or goat cheese for a different flavor profile.
More recipes suggestions and combination
Use whole wheat or gluten-free pasta for healthier or dietary-specific options.
